the story of rebecca

THE STORY OF REBECCA
There is a popular legend at The Lodge that dates back to the early 1900’s. The
account that has been related through the years involves a beautiful young
chambermaid with striking blue eyes and shocking red hair who disappeared
from her quarters after her lumberjack lover found her in the arms of another.
Although we might not have seen her, there are those who vow that Rebecca
still wanders the halls of this historic hotel. It has been said that ashtrays have
been seen sliding across tables unassisted, doors open and close for no apparent
reason, furniture has been moved, lights have turned on and off by themselves,
and fires have spontaneously ignited in the fireplace among other unexplained
incidents that occur to this day. Guests and employees continue to relate odd incidents that they attribute to Rebecca’s spirit, though none of them are threatening or frightening, but more of the fun and playful nature. There are some who
believe that Rebecca is in search of a new lover or friend who might appreciate
her flirtatious and mischievous ways.
Take a close look at the portrait of Rebecca in the Lounge. Who knows, maybe
you will be the one to see her. And if by chance you meet, please tell her we were
fond enough of her to name the restaurant in her honor.
601 Corona Place • Cloudcroft, NM 88317 • (575) 682-2566 • (800) 395-6343 • www.TheLodgeResort.com
r3.10.15
A Brief History of The Lodge
Originally constructed in 1899 by the Alamogordo and Sacramento Mountain Railway as a by-product of the
railroad’s search for timber and railway ties, the resort of Cloudcroft became immediately successful mountain
retreat...a cool reprieve to thousands of overheated Texans. (Remember that New Mexico, Oklahoma and Arizona
were not states at the time.) Owned and operated by the railroad, the resort’s initial building was a pavilion, now The
Pavilion Bed and Breakfast at The Lodge with reception and ballrooms.
As the actual log-constructed Lodge neared completion in 1899, an article in the Albuquerque Journal-Democrat
reported, “This beautiful building will be known as The Cloudcroft Lodge and its interior will be furnished with a
lavish hand, yet in keeping with the character of the place. Fireplaces, with wide, hungry mouths, will sparkle,
crackle and dart forth welcome tongues of flame to hundreds of merry guests, who will find a new pleasure in life
during the long, sultry summer.”
In 1908, the El Paso and Southwestern Railroad System, the resort’s new owner, advertised that the hotel, restaurant,
dancing pavilion, tennis court, golf links, bowling alley, billiard parlor, burro trips and children’s playground were
accessible for weekend rates of $3.00 round trip. Lodge rates were $12.50 and up per week.
On June 13, 1909, a disastrous fire destroyed The Lodge. But by 1911, The Lodge had been rebuilt and reopened on
its current, more scenic site. Since then it has undergone numerous renovations, but the initial appearance remains
almost unchanged.
Over the history of The Lodge, thousands of Southwestern families have called The Lodge and Cloudcroft their
second home. The Lodge has entertained and hosted hundreds of politicians, artists, entertainers and business
leaders, including such notables as Pancho Villa, Judy Garland and Clark Gable. Gilbert Roland was known to
frequent The Lodge. Both U. S. and Mexican government officials have long visited the historic hotel. Military
leaders, scientists and astronauts from all over the world have made The Lodge a retreat during their visits to White
Sands Missile Range, Holloman AFB and Fort Bliss. And, in fact, the most famous hotelier in the world was once
associated with The Lodge, with Conrad Hilton as its manager in the 1930’s.
In January of 1986 the historic Lodge was purchased by Great Inns of the Rockies, Inc., a small privately held
corporation. They operated the property successfully for 29 years.
As of March 2015 The Lodge entered a new era of ownership by New Mexico Adventures, LLC a company owned
by Lanna & Joe Duncan of Fort Davis, Texas. Who have a 25 year history in historic hotels ownership &
preservation in West Texas. They are committed to The Lodge tradition of friendliness, hospitality, outstanding food
& unique lodging.
601 Corona Place • Cloudcroft, NM 88317 • (575) 682-2566 • (800) 395-6343 • www.TheLodgeResort.com